After two decades of planning and more than six years of construction, the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints now rests on its new base isolation system.
Details of isolation system installation
Beginning Thursday, June 25, 2026, crews removed more than 1,500 bolts that connected 392 plates to the base isolators. These plates were used to keep the 98 base isolators, located 20 feet below the temple, stabilized during the weight transfer and installation process.
Expert perspectives on project milestone
Nathan Espinoza, an assistant project manager with Jacobsen Construction, stated that the system is unlike anywhere else in the world.
Brad Bohne, a general superintendent with Jacobsen Construction, described the development as a milestone moment for the project, noting that the temple is now free to move during an earthquake.
Reinstallation of historic temple doors
In addition to the engineering updates, the historic oak doors on the east side of the temple were reinstalled between June 23 and June 25. The west doors had previously been returned in early June.
Significance for future temple rededication
Richard Sutton, a senior director in the Temple Department over the Salt Lake Temple Celebration, said this milestone serves as a key indicator that the temple will be completed, opened, and rededicated for worship.
Ongoing exterior and interior progress
Other construction progress includes work on stone paving immediately outside the temple. This paving is being installed over snowmelt tubing designed to assist with grounds maintenance during winter months.
Inside the structure, carpet has been installed in the celestial room and surrounding study areas, while several endowment rooms are nearing completion. New chandeliers have also been placed above the east baptismal font and in various hallways and rooms.
Upcoming celebration and volunteer information
The Salt Lake Temple Celebration is scheduled to take place from April 5 to October 1, 2027. Applications for those wishing to volunteer, perform, or guide during the celebration are open until July 15, 2026.
